West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana - Louisiana State Police Troop A initiated an investigation into a two-vehicle collision on November 11, 2023, at the intersection of LA 415 and LA 986 in West Baton Rouge Parish around 6:30 p.m. Tragically, the crash resulted in the loss of nine-year-old Braelynn Washington from Port Allen, Louisiana.

The preliminary inquiry indicated that a 2017 Jeep Cherokee traveling south on LA 415 attempted to turn left at the intersection when it was struck by a northbound 2020 Chevrolet Blazer.

All occupants in the Jeep were properly restrained and unharmed, while the driver and rear passenger of the Chevrolet were unrestrained and sustained moderate injuries. The child front passenger of the Chevrolet was critically injured and taken to a local hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries.

There is currently no information regarding impairment for either driver. The authorities are continuing their investigation, and their findings will be submitted to the West Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney's office for review.

Louisiana State Police indicated that every occupant in a motor vehicle is required by Louisiana law to be properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. The proper use of child safety seats saves lives and prevents injuries. Child safety seats offer the best protection for children in the event of a crash; however, approximately 3 out of 4 car seats are not used correctly.
All LSP Troops are recognized as Child Seat Fitting Stations. If you have questions about your child’s seat or would like to ensure your seat is installed correctly, visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission to find the nearest fitting station in your area. You can also view all statewide events and updated safety information at BuckleUpLouisiana.com.